NPCIL Seeks Offers for Small Nuclear Reactors to Replace Coal Plants

03 Jan 2025 CW Team

The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has invited industry proposals to establish 220 MW Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) for captive use, aiming to replace coal-fired thermal power plants in steel, aluminum, copper, and cement industries. The BSRs are 220 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) known for their excellent safety record and performance, designed to be compact and suited for industrial use. NPCIL’s statement emphasised that BSRs offer a sustainable solution for decarbonising industries that are difficult to electrify. They will also help industries reduce carbon emission-related taxes, enhancing their competitiveness in global markets. The government plans to deploy 40-50 such reactors over the next decade in collaboration with the private sector. This initiative is part of the 220 MW BSR program announced in the 2024-25 Union Budget by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. BSRs are a type of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), a new class of nuclear reactors that can be built in specialised factories and assembled on-site. (ET)

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..